The Seattle Public Library Green Lake Branch

Constructed in 1909, the Green Lake Branch is one of three existing Carnegie Libraries in the Seattle Public Library system. The library has been a cornerstone of the Green Lake neighborhood and in continuous use for more than 110 years. Our renovation of this well-loved library will bring much needed updates to the Seattle Landmark building, allowing it to better serve current and future generations.

Our design approach is to respect and preserve the Carnegie legacy represented in the historic architecture, while integrating a host of critical, contemporary improvements. The scope of design includes a seismic retrofit, designed to meet above-standard safety performance during an earthquake so the library can serve as a disaster relief center. A new, highly efficient fossil-fuel-free system for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) helps meet sustainability goals while improving patron comfort. Accessibility improvements include a new lower-level entrance, a new elevator, and new restrooms; and an extensive interior remodel adds a new service desk area, new study and meeting rooms – with new furniture, finishes, and LED lighting throughout.

The project is targeting LEED Gold and construction is scheduled for late 2022.

A BuildingWork project. Contemporary photos, renderings, and diagrams © BuildingWork; historic photos © Seattle Public Library.